Although the regulations come into force tomorrow (25 May), BDA isadvising dentists not to panic.

The three things that are most important are:

Keeping patient (and staff) information secure. This has not changed. Dental practices are very good at keeping information secure. The GDC requires it.

Adhere to the Data Protection Principles. These principles are largely unchanged from the old Data Protection Act. Most practices will already be complying with them.

Be transparent about what information you have and what you are doing with it. This is covered in the privacy notices.

All aspects of GDPR are important and cannot be ignored. But BDA has been assured that, as long as you are working towards compliance, you will not be penalised if you have not yet got all your procedures and policies in place.